Datura metel, also known as Hindu Datura and Indian thorn apple is a Solanaceae family plant that has been established as multiple ancient cultivars originating in the early Americas and since naturalized in every warm region of the world. A famous plant in India according to Hindu lore as well as having extensive history in Ayurvedic medicine. Datura metel is an annual short herbaceous shrub typically growing from 2 to 5 tall with waxy toothed leaves, a light green to dark purple stem, double trumpet white flowers, and plump round fruits covered with warty knobs to short spines. D. metel can be grown as a perennial in warmer regions. Datura metel grows best in full sun to light shade. USDA Hardiness Zones 8-11.
Like all species of Datura, the seeds contain an enzyme on the outside of each seed that causes erratic timing in germination as a survival trait in the wild. In order to reduce the enzyme activity and improve germination rates, the seeds can be soaked in purified water for an hour, then drained before sowing into soil. Sow seeds onto the surface of a well draining soil mix and sprinkle a thin layer of soil to cover the seeds. Water the seeds in and keep the soil moist, but not soaking wet. Seeds should germinate best at temperatures around 70 F. Germination typically takes 7 - 25 days to occur. Even with optimal conditions, some seeds may germinate slowly and sporadically.
INTERNATIONAL SHIPPING DISCLAIMER:
All packages will be shipped with basic customs information such as; HS codes, VAT numbers, and properly labeled contents. Unfortunately, The Garden of Set is unable to provide phytosanitary certificates for orders at this time. It is the buyer’s responsibility to know local laws regarding the import of plants, seeds, and plant products into their country. It is also up to the buyer to provide any other customs forms or information required to import plants into their country. If packages get stopped by customs, The Garden of Set will not be able to provide a refund for the purchase. Most of the time packages make it to their destinations just fine, this is for the small minority of packages that get stopped without having all the proper customs information required by the country of import. Purchase at your own discretion.